How to Clean a Katana: a Step-By-Step Guide

Since functional katanas are made of high-carbon steel, they can rust if not properly cared for. Learning how to clean a katana is one of the easiest and most important things you can do. Just by following some easy steps, you will ensure that your blade stays safe and shiny, ready for the next battles.

In this article, I’m going to show you how to clean and oil a katana at home, covering everything you need to know about its maintenance.

How to Clean a Katana- Step by Step

If your Japanese sword came with a maintenance kit, proceed with the cleaning steps outlined in this guide. Otherwise, a katana maintenance kit can be easily purchased online. Once you have it, you can resume following the cleaning instructions. If you’re unfamiliar with katana cleaning kits, don’t be concerned – using them is straightforward. Familiarize yourself with each item and its function first. A typical cleaning kit will include:

Choji Oil – A clove-based oil. You’ll apply this as a final layer to keep the katana polished and shielded.

Uchiko Ball – A small cotton ball filled with fine polishing powder. This helps lift off old oil and debris, prepping the blade for a fresh clean.

Cleaning Cloths – Several cloths are included for different stages (nuguigami). One for wiping away residue, one for polishing, and another for applying the oil.

Hammer – Used to carefully tap out the bamboo pegs, allowing you to disassemble the handle if deeper cleaning is needed.

Step 1: Get Everything Ready

Before you start cleaning, gather all your supplies, including your cleaning kit and your sword (or swords).

Step 2: Disassemble the Katana (Optional)

Regular disassembly of a katana isn’t required after every use. For frequent practice or cutting, simply cleaning the blade is usually sufficient. However, if a considerable period has elapsed since the last full cleaning, disassembly is recommended to inspect for rust.

To disassemble the katana, first remove the pegs (mekugi). Using a mekugi-nuki (peg removal tool), gently tap them out. Once the pegs are removed, carefully slide the blade out of the handle (tsuka).

Step 3: Clean the Blade Using a Soft Cloth

Grab the nuguigami from the kit (or a clean, soft cloth). Carefully wipe down the blade to remove any old oil, dust, or residue. Start from the base and work your way towards the tip, using a gentle, consistent motion.

Step 4: Apply the Uchiko Powder to the Blade

Next, take the uchiko ball and lightly tap it along the length of the blade (both sides).

Step 5: Remove the Powder with Another Cloth

Use another fresh piece of nuguigami (or clean cloth) to wipe off the powder. Make sure to use smooth, even strokes so the blade ends up completely clean and free of any particles.

Step 5: Apply the Choji Oil

Apply a small amount of choji oil directly onto the blade or onto the cloth you’re using. Spread the oil evenly along the entire length of the blade, from the base to the tip, using gentle, consistent strokes.

Step 6: Reassemble the Katana (If Disassembled)

Place the habaki (collar) onto the blade, followed by the seppa (washers) and tsuba (guard). Then, carefully slide the handle (tsuka) back onto the blade, aligning it with the peg hole. Insert the mekugi and tap gently if needed to secure it firmly.

Step 7. Sheath your Sword

Once cleaned and oiled, check one last time to make sure that there is no dry spots on the blade. Place the katana back in its saya (scabbard). Always do this gently to prevent any nicks or scratches to the blade.

Display your katana in its stander with the edge facing up to reduce pressure on the edge and prevent dulling.

Cleaning a Katana Without a Kit: Using Household Items

Even without a dedicated katana maintenance kit, you can still clean your blade using readily available household items. While not ideal replacements for traditional tools, these alternatives can effectively preserve your katana’s condition.

To begin, gather a soft, lint-free cloth, rubbing alcohol, and either mineral oil or baby oil. The rubbing alcohol will dissolve old oil, dirt, and fingerprints. Lightly dampen the cloth with alcohol and gently wipe the blade down, ensuring it is completely dry afterward.

Finally, using a fresh cloth, apply a very thin layer of mineral oil or baby oil to the blade.

Using household items for katana maintenance isn’t ideal for the long term, but it’s a practical way to care for your sword when a proper kit isn’t available.

First-Time Cleaning

When you receive your brand new samurai sword, you might want to touch the blade to feel its sharpness or even perform some cutting tests. Once you finish, it’s important to clean and oil the blade. Most new swords come oiled from the factory. The first cleaning process is recommended right after you receive it(if you don’t plan on doing cutting tests right away).

Remove the old factory oil and apply a fresh one. If you plan to test your katana, there’s no need to oil it beforehand. Simply wait until you’re done testing, then clean and apply.

How Often Should I Clean my Katana

If you haven’t used your sword, cleaning it every 5 to 6 months is sufficient. The most important thing is to clean it right after each use, regardless of what you’re cutting, whether it’s tatami, bamboo, liquid bottles or anything else.

If stored in a humid place, make sure to check it regularly and clean it more often.

Things You Should Avoid When Cleaning

Touching the Blade with Bare Hands

The natural oils from your skin can lead to corrosion. Always avoid direct contact with the blade, and use gloves or handle it by the handle only.

Over-Oiling

Over oiling can oxidize the blade or even deteriorate the scabbard from the inside.

Last Words

By following these maintenance steps, you’ve already learned how to care for a katana, helping it stay in great condition for years to come. Cleaning and oiling might seem like small tasks, but they make all the difference in preserving your weapons beauty and functionality.

These steps can also be applied to any blade, whether it’s a European sword, a fantasy sword replica, or any similar blade made of high-carbon steel.

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